Standard Test Method for Low Level Determination of Total Carbon, Inorganic Carbon and Organic Carbon in Water by Ultraviolet, Persulfate Oxidation, and Membrane Conductivity Detection

1.1 This test method covers the determination of total carbon (TC), inorganic carbon (IC), and total organic carbon (TOC) in water in the range from 10 to 1000 ug/L of carbon. This method is for laboratory or grab sample applications and has been subjected to an interlaboratory study under the guidelines of D2777. Test Method D5997 can be used for on-line determinations. The test method utilizes persulfate or ultraviolet oxidation of organic carbon, or both coupled with a CO₂ selective membrane to recover the CO₂ into deionized water. The change in conductivity of the deionized water is measured and related to carbon concentration in the oxidized sample. Inorganic carbon is determined in a similar manner without the oxidation step. In both cases, the sample is acidified to facilitate CO₂ recovery through the membrane. The relationship between the conductivity measurement and the carbon concentration is described by a set of chemometric equations for the chemical equilibrium of CO₂, HCO₃-, and H, and the relationship between the ionic concentrations and the conductances resulting in linear response of the method over the stated range of TOC. See Test Method D4519 for a discussion of the measurement of CO₂ by conductivity.

1.2 This test method has the advantage of a very high sensitivity detector that allows very low detection levels on relatively small volumes of sample. Also, use of two measurement channels allows determination of CO₂ in the sample independently of organic carbon. Isolation of the conductivity detector from the sample by the CO₂ selective membrane results in a very stable calibration, with minimal interferences.

1.3 This test method was used successfully with reagent water spiked with various organic materials. It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of this test method for waters of untested matrices.

1.4 In addition to laboratory analyses, this test method may be adapted to on line monitoring. See Test Method D5997.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.